Most banks let you open a checking account entirely online in 10 to 20 minutes
You can open a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The bank will ask for your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, your address, and proof of income or employment. Some banks finish the process the same day; others take one to three business days to verify your information and send you your account number and debit card.
The speed depends on which bank you choose and whether you already have an account there. If you bank somewhere else and want to switch, online-only banks like Chime, Ally, or Charles Schwab often move faster than traditional banks with physical branches. If you're opening your first account anywhere, expect the longest wait because the bank has no history with you.
You'll need internet access and a way to verify your identity — usually a photo ID and a phone number where the bank can reach you. Some banks will video-call you to confirm who you are; others use a third-party verification service that checks your ID against public records.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and a phone number to open an account online.
- Most banks complete the process in one to three business days, though some online-only banks finish on the same day.
- You can fund your new account by transferring money from another bank account or waiting for a direct deposit.
- If the bank cannot verify your identity online, they may ask you to mail in a copy of your ID or visit a branch in person.
What information and documents you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the bank's website or app. Having them ready means you won't have to stop halfway through and come back later.
Government-issued photo ID: A driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will ask you to upload a photo of the front and back, or they may ask you to hold it up to your camera during a video call. The name on your ID must match the name you use to open the account.
Social Security number: The bank uses this to check your credit history and verify you are not opening multiple accounts under different names. Have it ready to type in.
Current address: Your street address, city, state, and ZIP code. If you moved recently, use the address where you live now, not an old one.
Phone number: A number where the bank can reach you. Many banks text or call to confirm your identity during the sign-up process.
Proof of income (sometimes): Some banks ask for a recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer. Not all banks require this, but having one on hand speeds things up if they ask.
The step-by-step process from start to account ready to use
The exact steps vary by bank, but the flow is nearly always the same. Here is what to expect.
Step 1: Go to the bank's website or download their app. Find the button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." It is usually on the homepage or in the menu.
Step 2: Choose the type of account. Most banks offer a basic checking account. Some offer checking plus savings, or checking with a higher interest rate if you keep a minimum balance. Pick the one that fits your needs. You can always open another account later.
Step 3: Enter your personal information. Type in your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. The bank will ask you to create a username and password for logging in later.
Step 4: Verify your identity. This is where the process differs by bank. Some will ask you to upload photos of your ID. Others will call you or send a text with a code you type back in. A few use a video call where you show your ID to a person or camera. This step usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Review and sign the account agreement. The bank will show you the terms — overdraft fees, monthly fees (if any), interest rate on savings. Read through it. You will sign electronically by clicking a button or typing your name.
Step 6: Fund your account (optional at this stage). The bank may ask if you want to transfer money in right away. You can link another bank account and move money over, or you can skip this and fund it later. If you skip it, your account still opens.
Step 7: Wait for confirmation. The bank will send you an email saying your account is open. Your debit card ships separately and usually arrives in 5 to 10 business days. You can use your account to receive direct deposits or transfers before the card arrives.
How long it actually takes from start to having money in the account
The timeline has two parts: account approval and money arrival.
Account approval: Online-only banks often approve you the same day you apply. Traditional banks with branches usually take one to three business days. If the bank cannot verify your identity online, they may ask you to mail in a copy of your ID, which adds five to seven business days.
Transferring money in: If you link another bank account and transfer money, it takes one to three business days for the money to show up. If you are waiting for a direct deposit from your employer, that follows your employer's payroll schedule — usually weekly or biweekly.
Debit card arrival: Your card ships after your account is approved and usually takes 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use right away in apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay while you wait for the physical card.
What to do if the bank cannot verify your identity online
Some banks cannot complete the verification step using only a photo ID and a phone call. This happens most often if you have no credit history, a very new address, or if the bank's verification system flags something unusual.
When this happens, the bank will tell you what to do next. Common options are:
- Mail in a copy of your ID: The bank sends you instructions to photograph or scan your ID and email it back, or to mail a physical copy. This adds five to seven business days.
- Visit a branch in person: If the bank has a location near you, you can go in with your ID and open the account face-to-face. This usually finishes the same day.
- Call and speak to someone: Some banks will verify you over the phone with a representative who asks security questions. This takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Try a different bank: If you are having trouble with one bank, another bank's verification system may work better for you. Online-only banks often have more flexible verification than traditional banks.
Do not ignore a message from the bank asking for more information. If you do not respond within the timeframe they give (usually 10 to 30 days), they will close your application and you will have to start over.
Funding your new account and getting your first debit card
Once your account is open, you have several ways to put money in.
Transfer from another bank account: Link your existing checking or savings account at another bank. The transfer takes one to three business days. Most banks let you link an account right during sign-up, or you can do it later in your account settings.
Direct deposit: Give your employer or the organization paying you (like Social Security or unemployment) your new account number and routing number. They will deposit your money on their regular schedule. You can find your routing number in your account settings or by calling the bank.
Mobile check deposit: Once your account is open, you can photograph a check with the bank's app and deposit it. The money usually shows up in one to three business days.
ATM deposit: If the bank has ATMs, you can deposit cash or checks at one of them. The money is usually available the same day or next business day.
Your debit card will arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days. While you wait, you can use your account number to set up bill payments or direct deposits. Many banks also offer a temporary digital card through Apple Pay or Google Pay that you can use immediately at stores and online.
Banks that let you open accounts fastest online
Speed varies. Here is what to expect from different types of banks:
| Bank Type | Typical Approval Time | When You Can Use the Account |
|---|---|---|
| Online-only banks (Chime, Ally, Charles Schwab) | Same day to 1 business day | Same day; digital card available immediately |
| Large national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo) | 1 to 3 business days | After approval; debit card arrives in 5–10 days |
| Credit unions | 1 to 3 business days | After approval; debit card arrives in 5–10 days |
| Community or regional banks | 1 to 3 business days | After approval; debit card arrives in 5–10 days |
Online-only banks move faster because they have no branches and their systems are built entirely for digital sign-up. Traditional banks are slower because they have more verification steps and older computer systems. If speed is your priority, an online-only bank is the better choice. If you want to deposit cash at a physical location, a bank with branches near you is worth the extra wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online if I do not have a Social Security number?
Most banks require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, some banks will accept it. Call the bank before you start the online process to ask whether they take ITINs, because not all do. If the bank says no, try a credit union or a community bank in your area — they sometimes have different rules.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
You will need some form of government ID to open an account online. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. If you do not have any of these, you can visit a branch in person with other forms of ID like a tribal ID, military ID, or passport card. Some banks may also accept a combination of documents like a utility bill plus a birth certificate, but this is rare and you should call ahead to ask.
Do I have to keep a minimum balance to open an account online?
No. Most banks let you open a checking account with zero dollars. You do not have to deposit anything right away. However, some banks charge a monthly fee if your balance drops below a certain amount (often $500 or $1,000). Read the account terms before you sign up to see if there is a fee and what the minimum is.
Can I open an account if I have been denied by ChexSystems?
ChexSystems is a database banks use to check your history with other banks. If you have unpaid overdrafts or closed an account with a negative balance, you may be flagged. Some banks will still open an account for you; others will not. Second-chance banks and some credit unions specialize in opening accounts for people with ChexSystems issues. Call ahead and ask whether the bank you want will work with you.
How do I know if my account is actually open?
The bank will send you an email confirming your account is open. The email will include your account number and routing number. You can also log into the bank's website or app with your username and password to see your account. If you do not get an email within the timeframe the bank said (usually one to three business days), log in and check, or call the bank's customer service number.